Gymnastics - Lesson 4

In Reception Gymnastics Lesson 4, young students are introduced to the exciting world of gymnastics by learning how to perform different body shapes. The learning objectives are clear: children should be able to demonstrate and hold a pencil, star, and tuck shape for at least ten seconds, and they should also be able to display these shapes on low-level apparatus. The key vocabulary for the lesson includes balance, shapes, and directional terms such as standing and lying. To facilitate learning, the necessary equipment includes gymnastics mats and benches. The warm-up activity is a lively Mat Game, where pupils navigate an area of spread-out mats, moving from one to another without touching the floor, and performing balances as directed by the teacher’s whistle.

The main part of the lesson, lasting 30 minutes, is dedicated to Body Shape Practices. Pupils work in small groups on their mats to replicate the three basic body shapes demonstrated by the teacher: the pencil, star, and tuck, in various positions such as standing, lying on their back, and lying on their front. This activity is designed to help pupils understand body control and balance. They then progress to Shape Bench Balancing, where they take turns to perform these shapes on a bench, focusing on muscle control and balance. The lesson concludes with a fun 'Simon Says' game, where pupils must execute the correct gymnastic shapes on command, reinforcing their learning and providing a gentle cool down after the physical activities.